📱 Call Now – Open 24/7

815-965-2000

Injured in a semi-truck crash?

Commercial Semi Truck Accident Attorneys

Rating for Semi Accident Lawyers

★★★★★

Based on select reviews at Google & Facebook from REAL Auto Accident clients

Find Out What Your Case Is Worth

New Field

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. ©2025 MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, LLC. All rights reserved.

semi truck on the highway

Who Is the Best Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer in Rockford?

When you’ve been injured in a commercial truck accident, you need a lawyer who understands the complexities of trucking laws and has a proven track record of winning cases against trucking companies and insurance carriers. At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we are recognized as one of Rockford’s best truck accident law firms, with over 26 years of experience fighting for victims of semi-truck and commercial vehicle crashes. Truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, and trucking companies have aggressive legal teams working to minimize payouts. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is critical. We know how to investigate truck accidents, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and find out why we are the trusted choice for truck accident victims in Rockford and Northern Illinois.

Why Do I Need a Commercial Truck Accident Lawyer?

Truck accident cases are far more complex than standard car accident claims. Large trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to protect their bottom line—not your rights. Here’s why hiring a Rockford truck accident attorney is essential:

1. Trucking Companies & Insurers Fight Hard to Avoid Paying

Trucking companies are required to carry high-value insurance policies, meaning insurers have a financial incentive to deny or minimize claims. They may argue that you were at fault or that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. A lawyer knows how to push back against these tactics and demand a fair settlement.

2. Multiple Parties May Be Liable

Unlike typical car accidents, multiple parties may be responsible for a semi-truck crash, including:

  • The truck driver (for reckless or negligent driving)
  • The trucking company (for unsafe policies, inadequate training, or negligent hiring)
  • The vehicle manufacturer (if a mechanical failure contributed to the accident)
  • Cargo loaders (if improperly secured cargo caused the crash)

A skilled attorney will investigate your case to identify all liable parties and maximize your compensation.

3. Truck Accidents Involve Complex Federal Regulations

The trucking industry is governed by strict federal and state laws, including hours-of-service regulations, weight limits, and maintenance requirements. Our legal team understands these regulations and can use violations to prove negligence in your case.


Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents

Many semi-truck accidents are caused by negligence on the part of the truck driver, trucking company, or another third party. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Driver fatigue – Truckers often drive long hours despite federal regulations limiting their time on the road.
  • Distracted driving – Using a phone, GPS, or other distractions can lead to deadly crashes.
  • Speeding & reckless driving – Large trucks take longer to stop, making excessive speed dangerous.
  • Improper maintenance – Faulty brakes, worn tires, and mechanical failures often contribute to accidents.
  • Overloaded or improperly secured cargo – Unbalanced cargo can cause a truck to tip over or lose control.
  • Driving under the influence – Some truck drivers use stimulants or alcohol to stay awake, impairing their judgment.

If your accident was caused by any of these factors, a Rockford truck accident attorney can help prove negligence and hold the responsible parties accountable.


What Compensation Can I Recover After a Truck Accident?

A semi-truck accident can leave you with serious injuries, financial burdens, and long-term pain. Our team will fight to recover the maximum compensation you deserve, including:

  • Medical expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical care.
  • Lost wages & future earnings – Compensation for time missed at work or permanent disability.
  • Pain and suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and reduced quality of life.
  • Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
  • Wrongful death damages – If you lost a loved one in a fatal truck accident, we can help you pursue justice.

Trucking companies often try to lowball settlement offers, but our attorneys know how to calculate your full damages and demand the compensation you truly deserve.


What Should I Do After a Semi-Truck Accident?

Taking the right steps after a commercial truck accident can protect your health and legal claim. If you are able, follow these steps:

  1. Call 911 & Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, injuries can worsen over time.
  2. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, truck, road conditions, and your injuries.
  3. Get Contact Information – Exchange details with the truck driver and any witnesses.
  4. Do Not Speak to the Insurance Company Alone – They may try to use your words against you.
  5. Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer – The sooner you get legal representation, the better your case will be.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a truck accident is two years from the date of the crash. However, if the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the deadline may differ. It’s crucial to act quickly, as waiting too long can result in losing your right to compensation.

Our team will handle all legal filings, negotiations, and court proceedings so you can focus on healing.


Why Choose MacCloskey Kesler & Associates?

At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we are dedicated to fighting for truck accident victims in Rockford and across Northern Illinois. Here’s why clients trust us:

26+ Years of Experience – We have handled hundreds of truck accident cases and know how to win.
Millions Recovered – We have secured large settlements and verdicts for our clients.
Proven Trial Lawyers – If the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court.
No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Personalized Attention – We treat every case with the care and dedication it deserves.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial truck accident, don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation.

FAQ

Get some of your more frequently asked questions about commercial semi-truck accidents answered right here, and learn how we may help you with your case.

All questions reviewed by Phil Kesler, Attorney at MacCloskey Kesler & Associates.

Do I really need a lawyer after a semi-truck accident?

Yes. Trucking companies and their insurance providers have teams of lawyers working to reduce or deny your claim. An experienced truck accident lawyer can protect your rights, gather evidence, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Who can be held liable in a commercial truck accident?

Several parties may be responsible for a semi-truck accident, including:

  • The truck driver (if reckless or negligent)
  • The trucking company (if they failed to train or properly maintain the truck)
  • The cargo loader (if improperly loaded freight caused the accident)
  • The truck manufacturer (if a mechanical failure was involved)

An attorney will investigate to determine all liable parties and hold them accountable.

How much does it cost to hire a truck accident lawyer?

At MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront—we only get paid if we win your case.

What types of damages can I recover after a truck accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical bills (current and future)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Vehicle damage
  • Wrongful death damages (if you lost a loved one in the accident)

How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in Illinois?

Illinois law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to compensation.

How are semi-truck accidents different from car accidents?

Truck accidents are more complex because they involve federal trucking regulations, multiple liable parties, and higher insurance policy limits. Trucking companies aggressively defend against claims, making it essential to have a skilled lawyer on your side.

What should I do immediately after a truck accident?
  • Call 911 and get medical attention
  • Take photos of the accident scene, injuries, and vehicles
  • Collect the truck driver’s and company’s information
  • Get witness contact details
  • Avoid speaking to the trucking company’s insurance adjusters
  • Call a truck accident attorney as soon as possible
What if the truck driver was fatigued or driving too many hours?

Federal regulations limit how long truck drivers can be on the road, but some violate these rules to meet deadlines. If driver fatigue played a role in your accident, we will obtain logbooks, GPS data, and black box records to prove negligence.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. However, your settlement may be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.

Why should I choose MacCloskey Kesler & Associates for my truck accident case?

We have over 26 years of experience winning truck accident cases in Rockford and Northern Illinois. Our firm has recovered millions for accident victims, and we fight aggressively against trucking companies and insurers. Plus, we work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win.

Scroll down for more ↓

Client success stories that motivate and spark transformation

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Based on select reviews.

View all of our 5-star reviews and why our clients have said for over two decades that they trust MacCloskey Kesler & Associates.

“MacCloskey Kesler & Associates handled my car accident case with utmost professionalism. They secured a settlement that exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend!” – Jane D.

“The team at MacCloskey Kesler & Associates was compassionate and dedicated. They fought hard for my medical malpractice case and achieved a great outcome.” – John S.

“I was injured at work and didn’t know where to turn. MacCloskey Kesler & Associates guided me through the entire process and ensured I was fairly compensated.” – Maria L.